BEVERLY HILLS, December 31, (THEWILL) – Uruguayan striker for English Premier League side Manchester United has been banned for three matches by the English Football Association and fined £100,000 for an “aggravated breach” of the rules.
The misconduct charge was brought on the 33-year-old after he “brought the game into disrepute” over his Instagram post in the aftermath of United’s 3-2 victory at Southampton last month. After the Uruguayan’s match-winning brace, Cavani shared a post from a friend on an Instagram Story, and added the words “Gracias negrito”.
A loose literal translation of “Gracias negrito” is “Thanks black”. However, Cavani was replying to a friend who wrote, “Asi te quiero, Matador”, which translates to: “I love you like this, Matador” using the player’s nickname, which is “El Matador”.
As soon as Cavani was informed of the possibility that the post could be offensive when interpreted out of context, he immediately deleted the story but the FA has shown that to be insufficient with thje imposition of a three-match suspension penalty at the minimum.
Part of the FA statement read: “A comment posted on the Manchester United FC striker’s Instagram page was insulting, abusive, improper and brought the game into disrepute contrary to FA Rule E3.1.
“The post also constitutes an ‘aggravated breach’, which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included reference, whether express or implied, to colour and/or race and/or ethnic origin.”
The suspension means Cavani will not be available for United’s Premier League trip to Villa Park on New Year’s Day, the Carabao Cup semi-final with city rivals Manchester City on Wednesday next week and the FA Cup third round tie with Watford on Saturday, January 9.
United’s response to the FA decision was swift:
“As he has stated, Edinson Cavani wasn’t aware that his words could have been misconstrued and he sincerely apologised for the post and to anyone who was offended.
“Despite his honest belief that he was simply sending an affectionate thank you in response to a congratulatory message from a close friend, he chose not to contest the charge out of respect for, and solidarity with, the FA and the fight against racism in football.
“While it is clear that context and intent are key factors, we note that the independent Regulatory Commission was required to impose a minimum three-game suspension.
“The club trusts that the independent Regulatory Commission will make it clear in its written reasons that Edinson Cavani is not a racist, nor was there any racist intent in relation to his post.
“United feel as though the Cavani case was unique in that it was an honest mistake and that he should not have been charged due to the context of the Instagram post, although they understand the FA’s ruling.
Cavani decided not to contest the charge and must complete a face-to-face education course as part of the rules.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
